AGAWAM – Holiday Bazaar season is almost upon us – and the Agawam Public Library is taking its shot at participating this year.

From Nov. 1 to Nov. 10, the library will be accepting holiday decoration donations for its Bizarre Bazaar. The donations must be in good condition and come from non-smoking homes, explained Adult Programs Coordinator Wendy McAnanama. The items should be brought in original packaging or clear, zippered bags.

According to the Agawam Public Library website, suggested items to donate include ornaments, tree skirts, flags, wreaths, menorahs, inflatables, bows, gift bags, collectibles, cookie cutters, gift wrap, stockings, trees under 5 feet, dishes and lights.

While the library’s bazaar might sound like a traditional bazaar set-up, which is generally a sale of miscellaneous contributed articles, there is one aspect of the event that sets this bazaar apart from the rest – everything in it is offered for free.

“If you want to get rid of it [a decorative item], a tag sale takes a lot of work. So, drop off what you don’t want and then come shopping for free,” said McAnanama. “See if there’s anything you want. It kind of gives you a sense of community too – like you’re paying it forward.”

McAnanma explained that the shoppers may fill up to one bag per day with goodies they wish to take home, free of charge. She also added that donating is not a requirement in order to shop. Participants may either donate, shop, or do both.

This is the library’s first attempt with the Bizarre Bazaar, however, it has been hosting a craft swap for nearly two years now.

“The craft swap was huge the first year, slightly smaller during the second year,” said the library coordinator. “One of the women in our cookbook club said, ‘how about we do it for holiday decorations?’ so, we’re doing it the day of the Christmas bazaars in town.”

McAnanama said she believes the holiday bazaar is a nice way to instill a sense of community and get into the holiday spirit.

“Sometimes, it just feels good to share stuff and to make somebody else happy,” she stated. “You have stuff in your house, and you don’t want to throw it away, so you don't know what to do with it. If you have a place to bring it, it makes you feel good because you have it out of your house and someone else might enjoy it.

“You can also come in and find something new for yourself too, and there’s no cost to anybody. Anybody can participate and it’s a nice time of the year to promote kindness and community,” she continued.

Decorations for other holidays, including Halloween and Easter, will also be accepted. Any items that are left from the bazaar will be donated to Savers.

The bazaar will take place in the small Community Room at the library on Nov. 16, from 3 to 5 p.m., and on Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information on the event, head over to the Agawam Public Library’s website at http://agawamlibrary.org/bizarre-bazaar/.